Tips for Heat Pump Installers:
Welcome to the 'Tips' page of New-Heating, specially designed for installers who focus on homes and small utility installations. Although these tips have been carefully composed, no rights can be derived from them. Warmtepomp-info.nl is a resource and is not liable for any consequences. Strictly follow the instructions of manufacturers and legislation (ISSO/NEN).
Important Considerations:
- Building a heat pump installation requires attention, but is no more difficult than a central heating installation.
- Following manufacturer's instructions will result in a trouble-free and cost-effective installation.
Source guide:
- Use plastic or vapour-tight insulated copper for the connection from the source to the heat pump.
- Avoid steel or thin-walled central heating pipes, which can fail within a few years due to condensation.
Insulation of Pipes:
- Insulate pipes with materials that will not cause damage.
- Be aware of stress corrosion when insulating brass compression fittings in refrigeration and heat pump systems.
Water flow / Circulation:
- 'Flow' is crucial for trouble-free operation of a heat pump.
- Include a buffer tank in the system to prevent compressor cycling and extend the life of the unit.
Size of the Buffer Vessel:
- As a rule of thumb, 15 liters per kW of power output.
- Adjust the formula for systems with 2 compressors or modulating compressors.
Applicability Boiler Heat Pump:
- Coordinate boilers and pool heat exchangers properly with the heat pump for efficient operation.
Hydraulic Connection:
- Follow the schedule of your heat pump supplier carefully.
- Avoid common mistakes such as incorrectly installed valves and pipes.
Ventilation:
- Provide good air vents on both the source and discharge sides of the system.
- Start the source pump a few days before the first start of the heat pump to mix glycol well.
Expansion:
- Both sides (source and output) require an expansion vessel for proper operation.
Line Filters and Non-Return Valve:
- Install line filters in both the source and delivery systems to prevent clogging of the heat pump.
- Consider a check valve, especially with passive cooling.
Antifreeze / Glycol:
- Add glycol to the water in closed wells to prevent freezing.
- Check with supplier for suitable glycol type.
Pipe diameters:
- Consider several factors when selecting pipe sizes, such as pump selection, speed, volume, fluid type, wall roughness, and noise requirements.
General Advice:
- Choose low temperature delivery systems for the best efficiency.
- Avoid direct combination of high and low temperature systems.
